Gastroesophageal reflux in infants
Alternative Names
Reflux - infants
Treatment
If your baby has reflux problems, hold him or her upright for 1 to 2 hours after feeding.
When the infant begins to eat solid food, thickened foods are preferable to thin foods.
Sometimes medicines are used to help reduce symptoms, such as antacids or a prescription drug called metoclopramide (Reglan).
Outlook (Prognosis)
The majority of infants outgrow this condition. In unusual cases, reflux may persist into childhood and can cause varying degrees of esophageal damage.
Possible Complications
- Aspiration pneumonia caused by stomach contents passing into the lungs
- Irritation and swelling of the esophagus
- Scarring and narrowing of the esophagus
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if your baby is vomiting frequently, especially if the vomiting is forceful or if other symptoms of reflux occur.
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